Hoof Manicures

Wednesday, 07 April 2010

• Hoof Manicures

   We have been farming for 11 years now, as of this past January.  The herd we have now is our third herd (that is another story), and we have a mixture of breeds.  In the 11 years, we have never had to have a hoof trimmer come and trim the cows hooves.  The main reason for that is that we usually let our cows out to graze as much as possible and the hooves naturally get trimmed from them walking around outside.  Some of the cows we have now had long hooves when we bought them and the herd had to be inside all winter, so that gave their hooves the advantage.  Well, some of our cows were beginning to look like they had skiis instead of hooves.  If they get too long, the cow has trouble walking, developes foot problems, and it can effect their general health.  So, Dave decided that his girls needed manicures.  The hoof  trimmer or "manicurist"  arrived with his set up.  It was a very interesting experience and the trimmer was excellent at his job.
  This is what they call the tilt table.  It is pulled by a pickup and was backed up to the barn door.
  
   A gate system is set up inside the barn to channel the cows into the pen or table, not sure what to call it.
  
  A cow is put into the "pen", her head sticks out the front,  the one side of the "pen" starts to squeeze into the cow, and it starts to tilt, exposing the cows hooves.  The cow is not squashed to death , but just held snuggly on the table.  The trimmer ropes her legs secure so he does not get kicked and he begins his work.
  
  
  
  view from other side of table
  
  looking good!
  
   If a cow had a wart or sore on her foot, the trimmer cleaned, medicated it and wrapped it up.
   
  I know that you might think this is cruel, or abusive to the animal, but I can assure you that the trimmer was VERY kind, careful and humane in dealing with the cows.  The cows are not hurt in any way.   It is for the good of the cow, for it is neglectful to not have this done when it is needed.  When they were all finished we witnessed how much easier they could walk.    *Interesting tidbit - it took the trimmer 3-7 minutes to manicure one cow!!*  Very impressive!
  Thought this was a funny picture.  We had one very stubborn girl, who was determined (almost) to not have her manicure done.  How many farmers does it take to get a cow in the chute?
  
  Another day on the farm, another project complete.
  Until next time.................